Billy Goat Mountain Climb
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Event Overview
The Billy Goat Mountain Climb is a trail race held in the Cleveland National Forest, near the historic mining town of Silverado, California. The start/finish area is located on Maple Springs Road, next to a creek near Lost Woman Canyon. A shuttle service will transport participants from a roadside lot a few miles away, though the exact shuttle location for the 2026 event has not been finalized.
Distances
The event offers three distances, all featuring significant elevation gain:
- 17 Miler (known locally as The Silverado Loop)
- 1/2 Marathon
- 10K
Course Details
The 1/2 Marathon and 10K courses begin on Maple Springs Road. Runners start on a gradually inclining asphalt road for about 1.5 miles before transitioning to a dirt truck trail that switchbacks up the mountain. The 1/2 Marathon proceeds toward Four Corners and along N. Main Divide to a turnaround point. The 10K follows the same initial route but turns around at Dead Man’s Curve. The 17 Miler is a loop course with nearly 3,800 feet of elevation gain.
Aid Stations
Aid stations providing water, electrolytes, and light calories are planned along the courses. Approximate locations are:
- 17 Miler: Mile 5 (Bedford Peak), Mile 8 (Bald Peak), Mile 10.5, Mile 13.5 (Dead Man's Curve).
- 1/2 Marathon: Mile 3 (Dead Man's Curve), Mile 6.55, Mile 10 (repeat of mile 3).
- 10K: Mile 3 (Dead Man's Curve).
Registration & Policies
Early bird pricing is available through September 30, 2025. Entry includes a race shirt, finish line snacks and refreshments, a finisher medal, and special awards for the top three overall finishers. The event does not offer refunds. If the race is cancelled due to circumstances beyond the organizer's control, entries will be applied to the following year's race or an alternative transfer option may be available. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
